How to Design an Impressive Home Entrance

May 27, 2016

You slip the keys into the knob, push the door open, and step into your dwelling with a visible but inaudible greeting, "Welcome home!" This is what an entryway is all about. It lets down your guard, makes you feel at ease, and fills you with thoughts that this house is loved and lived in. Your entryway is your first hello, and you want it to make a good impression. How? We've got the right tips for you.

Outside in. Where is your door located? Does it go straight into a living room or a longer hallway? Do you kick off your shoes as soon as you enter? Do you need a place to hang your keys on? Your entryway has a purpose other than its decorative function. Use this to derive a set of objects, furniture and pallet that will suit your needs. Ideas include a key holder, a side table with drawers, a hanging wall art, and a console for your shoes, coat and umbrella.

Zone out. If your entryway is a part of a larger room, or a longer hallway, then it is best to use proper zoning. Break the space by demarking it down with a rug. If you have a wide entryway, define the area with small accent chairs and a table. For smaller entrances, use a feature lightto welcome the guests into the room.

Editing required.Avoid overdecorating your entrance. It is the first and last area your guests will see, and you want it to be clean and on-point. A pair of table lamps, a vase, a slender table and a chair or two is enough to show off this corner. However, this doesn’t limit you with your styling preference. Pinning for a gallery? Why not highlight your best memories by creating a stunning display of your favourite photos? Alternatively, use the wall as a practical shelving space to showcase your medals and artefacts. Talk about the wow factor!

Hallway Hangovers:

So, you've perfected your entrance, but how about that empty hallway? Don't leave out this opportunity to use the space. Hallways can be brilliantly decorated to match the theme of your entire home. Adding a runner in the narrow area immediately outlines this corner. If it's beside the dining or the living room, why not install a cosy, cushioned seat so your family and guests can wait comfortably? An art piece or a gallery will also help add some colour and texture into the setting.

Showcase Your Side Entrances Too:

Side entrances are usually the ignored spaces that leads to your pantry, garage or the back door. Since it's usually in the hiding, homeowners often overlook its decorative potential. That doesn't mean you should! Use this space as a pretty and practical mudroom. Create cabinets to store away shoes, raincoats and bags after that rainy day. Install a mirror for that necessary brush-up and blush-up before joining the other guests in the house. An upholstered seat will keep one at ease while removing socks and slippers after a tiring day.

Last but Not Least: The Lighting:

Your lighting preference speaks volumes, so make sure that your entrance is well-illuminated for its design to produce the best effect. Choose the type of lighting that suits your aesthetics. A rattan pendant light is perfect for resort-themed beach homes. Spider chandeliers match well with modern interiors. Don't forget the classic beauty of table lamps; they add a nice touch to your desk while still providing an ambient glow to the area.